Revealing the Hidden Treasures of Ying County | The Miraculous Caisson of Jingtu Temple

| The Miraculous Caisson of Jingtu Temple 🌟 Revealing the Hidden Treasures of Ying County | The Miraculous Caisson of Jingtu Temple 🌟 🏰 In Ying County, Shanxi, besides the famous Fogong Temple Shakyamuni Pagoda, there is a low-key yet stunning cultural heritage site—Jingtu Temple. Here, history and art blend perfectly, telling stories of a thousand years. 🔍 Treasure Hunt Route: - Jingtu Temple is located northeast of Ying County, just a ten-minute walk from the Fogong Temple Shakyamuni Pagoda. Along the way, you might find the perfect angle to photograph the wooden pagoda. 🎫 Ticket Information: - It only costs 15 yuan, and you can purchase tickets on-site to start your cultural exploration journey. 📜 Historical Background: - Jingtu Temple was first built in the second year of the Jin Tianhui era (1124) and was rebuilt in the twenty-fourth year of the Dading era (1184). Although it has undergone repairs over the centuries, it has largely retained its original appearance. It is said that this was once the family temple of Emperor Mingzong of Later Tang. 📸 Architectural Wonders: - In 1933, Mr. Liang Sicheng conducted a survey of Jingtu Temple, and at that time, it was still a complete architectural complex. Unfortunately, the devastation of the 1960s left it heavily damaged, and now only the Mahavira Hall, a pair of stone lions, and a scripture pillar remain. 🏺 Mahavira Hall: - In the spacious courtyard, the Mahavira Hall stands out with its exquisite design. It has three bays in width and depth, a single-eaved hip roof covered with gray tiles, green glazed edges, and upturned eaves. Despite the weathering, the colorful paintings still hint at its former glory. 🌈 Eight Gates and Nine Stars Heavenly Palace Caisson: - Typically, caissons are only set in the center of the ceiling, but the Mahavira Hall of Jingtu Temple features nine caissons arranged in a nine-square grid, each one exquisitely crafted. This contrast between the small space and the luxurious caissons provides a significant visual impact. - The caisson design is known as the Eight Gates and Nine Stars Heavenly Palace Caisson, the only one of its kind, closely related to Feng Shui. - The central caisson is particularly exquisite, formed by two intersecting squares creating an octagon, with a relief of two dragons playing with a pearl at the center, surrounded by layered miniature brackets and heavenly palace pavilions, showcasing the superb craftsmanship of the artisans. - Although the other eight caissons are not as luxurious as the central one, they are equally intricately carved, each one a work of art. 🦁 Liao Dynasty Stone Lions: - The stone lions guard the front of the hall. Although time has eroded them, they still exude their former majesty. Under glass covers, they quietly tell the story of history's vicissitudes. 🍜 Local Food Recommendations: - After your visit, why not try Ying County's cold noodles? They are delicious and support local tourism, making your trip even more meaningful.